The High Plains Historian
Archives
"Did you know Charles Lindbergh crashed in Woodward County?"
"Did you know Charles Lindbergh crashed in Woodward County?"
"Lindbergh's Landing, Honoring Fallen Hero, Fan Outcry, Library Meet & Play, Golf Night, Job Fair, Trivia Night, Festival Fun!"
Megan Thomas
Sep 29, 2025
 |
Joke Of The Day |
Why did the scarecrow win an award in Woodward, Oklahoma? Because he was outstanding in his field! |
 |
 |
Lindbergh’s Forced Landing in Woodward County, 1934 |
On the morning of September 13, 1934, Charles Lindbergh — the famed aviator who had stunned the world just seven years earlier with his solo flight across the Atlantic — was once again in the skies. This time, though, his journey brought him and his wife, Anne Morrow Lindbergh, over the rolling plains of northwest Oklahoma. Their aircraft, a Monocoupe, had been steady until mechanical trouble suddenly struck. Accounts vary on the exact malfunction — some recall it as an ignition or carburetor issue — but one thing was certain: Lindbergh was losing power, and he had no choice but to find a place to land.
With Anne beside him, Lindbergh brought the plane down about 23 miles northeast of Woodward, in a pasture owned by rancher Homer Aitkens. The descent was rough but skillful, more a hard landing than a true crash. Remarkably, the plane was intact, and both Lindberghs were unhurt.
Stranded far from any airfield, the couple spent two days on the Aitkens ranch while waiting for repairs and assistance. The famous pair — usually pursued by photographers and reporters — found themselves instead in the quiet company of Oklahoma ranchers, who offered hospitality and a measure of privacy.
Lindbergh, known for his reserved nature, declined press attention at the time. He and Anne preferred to keep the event low-key, allowing the people of Woodward County to remember it not as a spectacle, but as a moment when one of the world’s most famous flyers quite literally fell from the sky into their backyard.
Today, the story endures as a curious footnote in local history: the time when Charles and Anne Lindbergh’s great adventure paused, not in Paris or New York, but on the windswept prairie of northwest Oklahoma. |
 |
The US Honor Flag traveled to Woodward to honor fallen paramedic Jeffrey W. Jones, who died in a collision involving an ambulance and a semi-truck. Jones was remembered for his professionalism, dedication, and commitment to saving lives. The US Honor Flag is a symbol of respect for those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, and it serves as a reminder of the traditions of honor and service that paramedics like Jones embody. Read More... |
Oklahoma State fans are calling for head coach Mike Gundy to be fired after the team's historic loss to Tulsa. This loss marks the first time the Cowboys have lost to Tulsa since 1951, and fans are expressing their disappointment and frustration on social media. Many are questioning Gundy's coaching decisions and overall performance, with some even creating a petition to have him removed from his position. Gundy has been head coach of the team since 2005, but this recent loss has ignited backlash from fans who are demanding change. Read More... |
 |
Meet & Play at Woodward Public Library |
Date: Monday, September 23 A fun and interactive play session for young children and their caregivers. Enjoy socializing, educational play, and early literacy activities. |
LAST Ladies Golf Night – “Grannies on the Green” |
Date: Wednesday, September 25 Dress up and compete for prizes in this fun-filled costume golf night. Don’t forget a potluck dish for dinner! |
Work Ready Job Fair |
Date: Wednesday, October 1, 2025 A job fair for those looking for local employment opportunities. Employers and service organizations will be present. |
United Fund Trivia Night |
Date: Thursday, October 2, 2025 An evening of trivia, raising funds for local causes. Great for group fun and supporting community efforts. |
PeeWee Festival/Vendor Fair |
Date: Saturday, October 4, 2025 Vendors, crafts, little kid basketball — a fun place to browse for deals and watch basketball. |
 |